03.16.26 Best Auto Insurers / Discounters Go Wide - The Clark Howard Podcast Recap

Podcast: The Clark Howard Podcast

Published: 2026-03-16

Duration: 30 min

Summary

Clark Howard discusses the current landscape of auto insurance, highlighting the most reliable insurers and the impact of recent pricing trends. He also explores how discount retailers like Dollar Tree are adapting and finding success in more affluent areas.

What Happened

Clark Howard starts by addressing concerns about rising auto insurance rates, noting that rates have been stabilizing and even decreasing in some states. He attributes this to insurers becoming more profitable after recent rate increases and now competing for customers by offering better deals. Clark introduces his 'Team Clark score,' a list of the best insurers compiled from various data sources, including J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Regional insurers like Erie Insurance and NJM top the list, while USAA and Amica Mutual are also highlighted despite some customer complaints about USAA.

Clark emphasizes the importance of actively shopping for insurance to get the best rates rather than sticking with a current provider due to inertia. He provides insights on how body shops rate insurers based on their ease of handling claims, noting that major advertising insurers often don't make the list of the best in this regard. The podcast then transitions to listener questions, where Clark advises on choosing between new and used cars, mentioning that older used cars now offer better value due to depreciation.

Another listener question addresses concerns about buying the discontinued Ford F-150 Lightning, with Clark advising to consider used models for potential savings. Clark also discusses the pitfalls of solar panel leasing contracts, sharing a listener's experience with unexpected rate hikes and the closure of ADT's solar division, leaving them stuck in a long-term contract.

In a segment on discount retailers, Clark shares how Dollar Tree's shift to a price band model has expanded its customer base and increased its presence in affluent areas. He acknowledges his initial skepticism about the change and notes the strategic success of the model. He also highlights the growing trend of Americans stretching their dollars by shopping at discount retailers and purchasing used items.

Clark wraps up with a discussion on teaching financial responsibility to children, emphasizing ongoing conversations about money management. He shares personal anecdotes about how different financial upbringings influenced his children's spending habits. Finally, Clark answers a question about life insurance, recommending level term insurance over annual renewable term for long-term financial planning.

Key Insights